Custom low-profile load cell for precise high-frequency force measurements
Custom-designed load cell using an off-the-shelf strain gauge and nickel superalloy construction to deliver accurate force measurements. Designed to support correlation of process parameters with material properties in industrial applications, with a minimum 12 kN sensing capacity at 10 kHz and operation around 20°C without corrosive-gas constraints.
Overview
The custom load cell is a precision device engineered to provide accurate force measurements in low-profile applications. It uses an off-the-shelf strain gauge and a digital read-out system to support industrial use cases that require correlating process parameters with material properties. The nickel superalloy construction is intended to provide durability for environments requiring measurement of forces of at least 12 kN at frequencies of 10 kHz.
Technical specifications
- Material: Nickel superalloy, offering 1.3 GPa strength after heat treatment.
- Measurement Capacity: Minimum 12 kN load sensing at a minimum frequency of 10 kHz.
- Temperature Range: Operates effectively at 20°C without environmental constraints such as corrosive gases.
- System Components: Custom-designed load cell integrated with COTS electronic systems for digital read-out.
- Development Process: Uses finite element analysis (FEA) for design validation, CAD modeling, CNC machining, and software programming for data logging.
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 4, indicating it has been validated in a lab setting and is ready for further testing and development in collaboration with industry partners.
About Multiscale Systems
Multiscale Systems is an advanced engineering and manufacturing company that specializes in solving complex technical problems for industries such as aerospace, defense, energy, and robotics. The company provides a vertically integrated approach that spans research, design, development, testing, and production. Their core capabilities include hybrid metal additive and precision machining, polymer forming and composites, and advanced material solutions like metamaterial composites. By maintaining engineering continuity from initial research and development through to production-ready hardware, Multiscale Systems addresses challenges involving extreme environments, complex geometries, and tight performance margins where conventional manufacturing models often fail.
The company's services are structured to manage technical risk, making them particularly valuable to customers developing high-consequence hardware or systems that must operate reliably despite uncertainty. They support programs that require design iteration, advanced inspection, and engineering judgment rather than simple build-to-print execution. With a history of federal research programs and an ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100:2016 certified facility, Multiscale Systems works with industrial and government partners to translate emerging technologies into deployable, repeatable manufacturing solutions. Their structured engagement model ensures that technical scope, schedule, and budget remain aligned as programs evolve from early-stage discovery to finalized production hardware.
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